Better Events

This week on the podcast, we’re joined by event sustainability advocate and onsite event manager, Alycia Drube for a real talk on what it actually means to plan sustainable events. We explore why sustainability can feel more like a buzzword than a best practice, common mistakes planners make, and practical ways to incorporate sustainable (and not only environmental) choices into your events. Plus,...

In this week's episode, we’re breaking down what it really means to be a freelancer in the event industry. From the types of roles we’ve worked recently to the pros and cons of freelance life, we’re sharing honest insights and real-world advice. We also answer listener questions about how to get started, set your rates, find your confidence, and navigate the freelance world—whether you’re fresh ou...

We're thrilled to partner with Eventeny to bring you this episode where we chat with Cat McDevitt of Eventeny all about how to plan a successful festival. Cat shares the key pieces you need to get right, common mistakes to avoid, and how to manage everything from vendor relations to crowd safety. Whether you’re planning your first festival or just curious what goes into it, Cat’s tips and behind-t...

In this episode of the Better Events Podcast, we’re taking you behind the scenes of the Northwest Event Show (NWES) here in Seattle! We share what makes this annual industry event a favorite of ours, our involvement this year, and a few standout moments from the show floor. Plus, we asked fellow event pros to share their top tip for creating a better event—and their answers did not disappoint. We...

In this episode of the Better Events Podcast, we’re talking all about working with vendors—what that really means and why those relationships are key to a successful event. From how to find trusted vendors for a new project to what info to share upfront, we’re answering common questions we hear from both new and seasoned planners. We’ll also chat about navigating high quotes, verifying expertise,...

In this week’s episode, we're celebrating 200 episodes of the Better Events podcast! That's over 6,000 minutes of event-related content across 5 seasons. In this episode, Logan and Mary answer your questions, from what you need in your portfolio to how to add cost-effective things that make a big impact to reaching out to sponsors for your events. You'll learn something you can apply to your event...

This week, we sit down with Deesha Dyer, a woman whose career trajectory is nothing short of extraordinary. As the former White House Social Secretary, she brings a unique perspective to our conversation, sharing her experiences and insights from orchestrating events on a global stage. We also dive into the art of event design, with Deesha sharing real-world examples and practical strategies to ca...

In this week’s episode, Mary deep dives into her latest experience at the infamous SXSW (South by Southwest) in Austin, Texas. She shares her key takeaways, lessons learned and how you can attend in the future. SHOW NOTES: Join the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/ Buy the replays to the 2024 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference Buy...

In this week’s episode, join Logan and Mary as they reflect on the first three months of 2025. They discuss the highs and lows of the quarter, sharing insights on the most rewarding aspects and standout moments that have shaped their early 2025. Listen as they delve into the strategies and practices they plan to carry forward, and learn how they intend to recharge and reset for the next bustling q...

In this week's episode, dive into the essential pre-event routines that seasoned event planners and producers swear by to ensure everything goes smoothly. From the final high-level preparations the day before an event to the non-negotiable tasks that set the stage for success, our discussion covers it all. Learn about the checklists, team protocols, and personal habits that keep top professionals...

This week, Logan and Mary dive into one of the trickiest topics for event professionals: determining what to charge for your services. They discuss the complexities of setting rates without a standard blueprint, how they feel about their current pricing, and the factors that influence their decisions. From understanding city-specific standards to adjusting fees for different event types and handli...

This week, we dive more into the misunderstood topic of tipping within the event industry. Logan and Mary delve into what tipping really means, how it differs from service fees, and who should be considered when gratuities are given at events. They address a listener's question about standard tipping practices and share personal experiences with tipping as event planners. Learn more about why tipp...

This week, Logan breaks down what information your A/V partner needs for your next event into five key areas to set your event up for success. Learn more about the questions your A/V company has and how to avoid common mistakes that can lead to last-minute scrambling and budget increases. To watch the original series on Logan's YouTube channel, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoJPIWq7X...

This week, Mary shares a clip from her recent talk at the Non Profit Events Mini-Con in Seattle. Learn more about what you need to do first, at the beginning of your planning process, if you're getting ready for a fundraising event. SHOW NOTES: Follow Mary and her business at: Website: https://epevents.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epeventsllc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/epeven...

This week, we chat with Devon Pasha, emcee and founder of DMP Creative LLC, about the transformative power of event design. Devon shares her insights on how anyone can implement strategic design to elevate their events, from enhancing the check-in experience to revitalizing the stage program. She also shares real-life event design examples and simple, actionable tips you can apply to your next eve...

This week's episode is our live podcast recording from the end of the 2024 Better Events Conference. We asked our attendees to submit their questions about growth and what they're looking forward to in 2025. We compiled a few common themes and questions for one big episode all about growth. We'll explore personal growth, financial growth, growth in events and our businesses and end with a few goal...

This week, we listen back to our goals from January 2024, reflect on how we did, and set new goals for 2025. Listen to hear how we did, learn from our experiences, and set your own intentions/goals for the new year. We hope this helps us all create, host, and attend better events in 2025. SHOW NOTES: Buy the replays to the 2024 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference Learn...

This week, we reflect back on our 2024 Better Events Conference, sharing our favorite moments, your reviews, lessons we learned last year to apply to the conference and more! Hear about what's next for the conference and how you can continue to learn more about creating better events. SHOW NOTES: Buy the replays to the 2024 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference Join the...

This week, we're doing one of our favorite annual episodes where Logan & Mary share their lessons learned in events and in business. From financial lessons to business strategy, asking key questions and documenting your event process, they share their top lessons. SHOW NOTES: Buy the replays to the 2024 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference Join the paid Better Event...

As we wrap up 2024 and Season 4 of the Better Events podcast, join us for a special compilation episode where we revisit our guests from this year's journey. We've connected with each of our Season 4 guests to reflect on their personal and professional growth and to hear their dreams for 2025. From manifesting dream clients to acquiring new skills, their stories are sure to inspire. Tune in for a...

This week, Logan and Mary dive into a mix of listener questions in this episode of Better Events , tackling everything from building your initial clientele to creating engaging and mission-focused events. We discuss how to connect with similar businesses, draw more attendees, combat ageism, and manage events remotely. As the holidays approach, we also explore thoughtful ways to thank donors and sp...

This week, we're reflecting on the 2024 event season: from Olympic games to national nonprofit fundraisers, pro softball, galas and more. Logan and Mary discuss the highs and lows, revealing the most rewarding aspects and the standout moments that really defined the year for them. Hear how collaborations and fresh industry perspectives have reshaped their approach, and discover the strategies they...

Step behind the curtain with Logan and Mary as they dive into the nuts and bolts of planning the Better Events Conference. Discover why they decided to bring the conference back, the tweaks and improvements they're excited about, and the unexpected challenges they've faced along the way. From lessons learned in ticketing and registration to the tech and tools that are making it all happen, they sh...

Got event planning headaches? In this week's episode, Logan and Mary break down some of the headaches in events that they've faced this recent event season and beyond. They tackle everything from common event challenges to debating which are solvable and which are just part of the job. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned pro, you'll find practical tips and maybe even a mantra or two to h...

Ever wonder how the top event pros handle tough conversations with their key stakeholders like clients, vendors, and attendees? In this week's episode, Mary and Logan sit down with Gabby Robbucio, founder of ProEventTips, who spills the secrets on forging lasting partnerships in the event industry. Gabby tackles common pitfalls, conflict management techniques, and the role of technology in keeping...